Grand Avenue to The Avenue: A Retail Transformation in Milwaukee
In 1982, Grand Avenue opened in downtown Milwaukee, aiming to revitalize the Westown area.
Spanning three city blocks, it introduced over 80 specialty stores and what was, at the time, the largest food court in Wisconsin.
Built into the historic Plankinton Arcade, the mall kept many original architectural details, including the well-known statue of John Plankinton in the center of the circular atrium…